Six standout pieces from Louise Kennedy’s A/W collection

Crystal bees created a buzz at Kennedy HQ

Lily – navy polo knit ¤595 by Louise Kennedy.
Lily – navy polo knit ¤595 by Louise Kennedy.

There was a real buzz at Louise Kennedy’s autumn/winter fashion show at her headquarters in Merrion Square on Tuesday – and not just from the guests – but the jewelled bee motifs that distinguished some lovely outfits.

Paddy sweater €695 and Drake skirt €1,795
Paddy sweater €695 and Drake skirt €1,795

The most spectacular was a silver jacquard coat completely covered in tiny sparkling crystal bees (€1,695 – matching skirt to order) while a lighter flight settled on the cuffs and belt of another coat in black crepe (€1,395).

Fifi - bee embellished knit €1,295 and Eva skirt €450
Fifi - bee embellished knit €1,295 and Eva skirt €450

Bees also pollinated a classic black/navy swing jacket and the front panels of a polo top called Fifi (€1,295). Flying insects aside, another creature from the animal world was the embroidered and richly decorated image of Kennedy’s constant and most adoring companion, Paddy, a two year old miniature Schnauzer – notably on a stylish Italian merino sweater, a wow at €695 and a T-shirt €295.

Juliet - bee embellished coat €1,395
Juliet - bee embellished coat €1,395

It all serves to illustrate Kennedy’s sure touch and consummate skill when it comes to the sort of detail that can elevate something simple into the realm of luxury; her fabrics come from the top houses in Europe like Linton (who make for Chanel) and others, though her Italian jersey two-pieces are cut and made in Dublin before panels are sent to India to be hand embroidered.

Marnie  – floral embossed coart €1,695 by Louise Kennedy
Marnie – floral embossed coart €1,695 by Louise Kennedy

“It always comes back to the fabric and the power of colour. We have focused on Louise’s favourite combination of blue/black this season,” says Sarah-Kate Caughey of Louise Kennedy. “We understand our clients and their lifestyle and we interpret that every season and know what they want”.

Davina – sapphire crepe top €450 with Rachel sapphire trousers €495 by Louise Kennedy
Davina – sapphire crepe top €450 with Rachel sapphire trousers €495 by Louise Kennedy

Given this winter collection of luxurious day and evening wear including a winning red floral embossed coat, Kennedy has created enough temptations to attract even more to her boutiques in Dublin and London.

Deirdre McQuillan

Deirdre McQuillan

Deirdre McQuillan is Irish Times Fashion Editor, a freelance feature writer and an author